While the twelfth season of „Lena Lorenz“ is still airing on ZDF, the network has already greenlit a thirteenth season, confirming the series‘ continued prominence in German public television.
The decision was formalized during a major co-production meeting in Vienna, where ZDF, ORF, and SRF agreed on a broad collaborative framework for the 2026/2027 season. „Lena Lorenz“ was among the first series to receive an official commission, joining established staples like „Der Alte,“ „Die Toten vom Bodensee,“ and „Die Bergretter“ on the upcoming slate.
Production is already underway in the Berchtesgaden region, with six new feature-length films in development. Filming is expected to continue through October 2026, though an exact broadcast date for the new episodes has not been announced.
Judith Hoersch, who has portrayed the titular midwife since the series began in 2015, confirmed the ongoing work via a Facebook post in late March, sharing a photo from the set with the caption: „Wir drehen auf alle Fälle schon fleißig weiter“ and „Liebe Grüße aus den Bergen.“ Her message was met with enthusiastic fan responses, including comments like: „Schon alles durchgesuchtet! Wie immer viel zu wenig… Eine wahnsinnig gut gelungene Staffel war das, bitte macht ganz bald weiter!!“
The returning core cast includes Eva Mattes, Raban Bieling, Liane Forestieri, and Seán McDonagh, ensuring continuity in the ensemble that has anchored the show’s emotional tone over more than a decade.
Thematically, the new season maintains the series’ focus on socially resonant storytelling. Plotlines will explore early parenthood, the familial impact of Huntington’s disease, and the financial strain on young families — topics the show has consistently approached with nuance.
Personal tensions will also intensify for Lena: her partner plans an extended trip, while her aunt faces another serious health crisis, compounding the professional pressures she routinely encounters in her midwifery practice.
The Lorenzhof, the family farm that serves as the series’ central location, has become a de facto pilgrimage site for fans, transforming the filming area into a modest visitor destination.
By renewing „Lena Lorenz“ mid-season, ZDF signals confidence in the show’s enduring appeal, particularly as it complements other reliable performers in its lineup such as „Der Bergdoktor“ and „Die Chefin,“ which drove strong ratings in 2025.
The series also benefits from expanding cross-border collaborations, including upcoming Eurovision-linked episodes of „Aktenzeichen XY,“ which will tackle transnational crime stories across Germany, Austria, and Switzerland.
Why did ZDF decide to renew „Lena Lorenz“ while the current season is still airing?
ZDF cited the series’ sustained popularity and consistent delivery of socially relevant content as key factors in the early renewal, reflecting confidence in its ability to maintain strong viewership.
What themes will the new season of „Lena Lorenz“ address?
The thirteenth season will explore early parenthood, the impact of Huntington’s disease on families, and the economic challenges faced by young households, continuing the show’s tradition of integrating personal drama with broader social issues.
